One of the hottest topics in the NBA media world right now is what the future holds for Atlanta Hawks star point guard Trae Young. Recent reports from both Marc Stein and Tim MacMahon suggest Young could be traded as soon as this year's trade deadline.
In a recent video uploaded by Basketball Content Creator and Podcast Host Kenny Beecham discussed the possibility of Trae Young being traded. He highlighted the Washington Wizards as a good fit for both sides, noting that the team's biggest weakness at the moment is at the point guard position. Young's ability as a playmaker could really help the development of Washington's young core, as he is one of the league's most elite table-setters.
However, the potential asking price for Trae Young may be too steep for the Wizards. If Washington is unwilling to meet that cost, a pivot toward New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray could make far more sense. With Murray coming back from injury, his value will likely be at an all-time low. He's also on a cheaper contract than Young, and when healthy, is one of the league's most elite floor generals.
If Murray ended up in Washington, he could be a better fit than Young would be with the Washington core. His style of play emphasizes decision-making, defense, and facilitating others, all of which would be very beneficial to the Wizards' young talent. Murray is far less demanding of touches and may fit in better with the Wizards than Young, as he is less accustomed to being a go-to scorer.
Murray is a match made in heaven for the Wizards
Murray’s best season came in 2021–22, when he was named a Western Conference All-Star after averaging 21.1 points, 8.3 rebounds, 9.2 assists, and 2.0 steals per game with the San Antonio Spurs. That Spurs team was similar to the current Wizards in many ways, as both featured young cores in need of a steady veteran presence to guide them in high-leverage moments.
For the Pelicans, it appears the front office could be leaning towards selling at this season's deadline, so getting off the next two seasons of Murray's contract may be a top priority. On top of that, any trade with Washington will at least allow the Pelicans to gain some future draft capital or young talent that can be valuable in building the franchise's future.
With Dejounte Murray’s name continuing to circulate in trade rumors, the Washington Wizards may be the perfect trade partner for the Pelicans as the deadline approaches.